Last week, I won a culinary sweepstakes from
Peroni Nastro Azzurro -- a pizza making party, and beer and food pairing class at the
Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. When I heard I won I was excited; I won something that I really wanted and knew I would enjoy.
For those of you new to The 40 Factor, you may not know how much I love to cook and bake, and how much I believe
in the importance of the four Rs -- finding ways to Rest, Relax, Refresh, and Recharge -- while striving to achieve a well-balanced
life. It’s much easier during the warm weather months, because a weekly nature walk does me a world of good. When it
gets cold, it’s another story.
My excitement built for days before the class. Who knew winning this sweepstakes
could have such an impact on me? I saw a clever, colorful sign for Peroni Nastro Azzurro’s contest in the supermarket.
The idea of winning the class was enticing, but I really entered to test the mobile contest functionality. I didn’t
think I’d win.
The class was a lot fun. Since the prize was for me and a guest, my friend and colleague, Kim,
(above) joined the festivities. Sure, it was informative and interesting, but it was also fun -- relaxing,
refreshing, fun.
For a moment, I completely forget about all the things that have been heavily
weighing on this 40-something’s mind... my dad’s health… aging parents... weight loss... work... career
goals... retirement fund… decisions to make... responsibilities... and more. I stepped into the kitchen and left the
world behind.
We had a great group of people, who were friendly, down-to-earth, and ready to enjoy the experience. People like
Mike Duff, who is a writer and editor, and just launched a new, fascinating site:
Beer I Fell Into. We were taught by talented, personable chefs and instructors -- Erica, Bianca, and Sue -- and the other staff was helpful
and amusing. We were greeted with open bar and antipasti. What more could you ask for? Then, the group made fresh dough,
pizza, focaccia, and stromboli.
We learned about pairing beer with food, in ways most of us never imagined. Our host and speaker,
Gregory Weinberg of Tenth and Blake, was as entertaining as he was interesting. During the beer tasting, we were served:
- Peroni Nastro Azzuro, a crisp, refreshing Italian lager;
- Blue Moon Spiced Amber, a cinnamon/allspice
American craft ale; and
- Leinenkugel Berry Weiss, an American craft wheat beer with a blend of logan-, elder-,
and blackberries.
I am now an official fan
of the first and last, and I’m looking forward to serving them in my home soon. Many thanks to Alexander Joerger, director
of Wine, Beer & Spirits at A&P - Best Cellars, for assisting me with the beer names and descriptions.
The evening was topped off with an enjoyable dinner of everything us pizza-making newbies whipped up, along with
salad and dessert made by professional chefs from the Institute of Culinary Education.
What a great way to step away from day-to-day pressures, meet new people, and have a good time! Thank you, Peroni!
